Breathe!
The Cuyahoga Valley National Park, the only national park in Ohio, is our backyard. We have state, metro and city parks, rivers, lakes, ledges, paths, marshes and wildlife preserves—not to mention the 90-plus miles of Towpath Trail. There are more than 50,000 acres to soothe your soul. You’re bound to be in your element.
WATER
The Portage Lakes
With their recreational, restaurant and entertainment options, the Lakes have a vacation vibe all year. The area is anchored by the 411-acre Portage Lakes State Park.
• Rent a kayak, canoe or paddleboard or bring your own.
• Fish at Nimisila Reservoir, a peaceful place to plant a pole.
• Reserve a weekend cabin on a private island.
• Swim and sun on the Turkeyfoot Lake beach.
• Tour the lakes on a pontoon boat.
• Jet ski on the East Reservoir.
The Cuyahoga River
A little more than 50 years ago, the Cuyahoga (kai-uh-HOAG-uh) River was so polluted it caught fi re. (Not our best moment.) But today, it is an American Heritage River—sparkling, healthy and perfect for watersports.
The Cuyahoga River Water Trail, an Ohio Water Trail, is divided into fi ve sections with varying degrees of diffi culty. For details on access, visit cuyahogariverwatertrail.org
Rent a kayak (and paddles!) from Burning River Adventures and travel from Kent to Cuyahoga Falls.
Float the River in Cuyahoga Falls lets you and your friends tube down the river and then shuttles you back. floattheriver.net
West Branch State Park (5570 Esworthy Rd, Ravenna) The park’s 2,650-acre lake with its many forks and coves is popular with fi shermen, swimmers and boaters with no limit on horsepower. Boat rentals, gas and supplies are available at the marina. ohiodnr.org
Summit Lake (411 Ira Ave., Akron) Once “Akron’s Coney Island” and then neglected, Summit Lake on Akron’s south side is renewed and now open for fun. Visit the Summit Lake Nature Center in an old pump house and then paddle around the highest point along the Ohio-Erie Canalway. Watch progress as the trail to connect the lake to the Towpath is built.
